Risk Management and Insurance Studies

The Risk Management & Insurance Studies department offers students a pathway to a rewarding career in risk management. Students will explore the functional risk areas—including corporate risk management, employee benefits, and insurance carrier, broker, and underwriter activities. Students will also understand the industry’s Best Practices and acquire the technical skills required to succeed in various positions in the industry.

In addition, students will refine their skills in leadership, critical thinking, decision-making, risk forecasting, risk assessment, oral and written communication, problem-solving, attention to detail, interpersonal and cross-cultural relations, organizing and planning, and computer literacy.

For more information, please contact our Director of Risk Management & Insurance Studies, David Cisneros. 

What careers are available?

The events of the past couple of years have spotlighted the need for organizations to adopt effective risk management programs and strategies that can meet the challenges of today. And career opportunities in risk management and insurance are at an all-time high.

Corporations in all industries, from gaming, entertainment, manufacturing, healthcare, and education, require talented employees in various risk management roles. University graduates with risk management skills are highly sought after and can pursue many career paths.

Average salaries of careers in risk management
Position Avg. Annual Salary
Chief Risk Officer $140,000
Risk Manager $114,000
Risk Analyst $76,000
Claims Manager $70,000
WC Claims Manager $113,000
Claims Adjuster $48,000
Actuary $114,000
Underwriter $73,000
Loss Control $74,000
Insurance Agent $60,000
Account Manager $54,000
Insurance Producer $121,000

In addition to competitive salaries and an exciting work environment, risk management professionals enjoy a flexible work schedule and a work-life balance.

Internships, curriculum, and scholarships

The College of Business supports the Risk Management & Insurance Studies department with scholarships, internships, counseling, and job placement.

Curriculum Overview

Our energetic, passionate faculty are adept at making textbook material come alive. And to supplement the classroom experience, faculty will invite practitioners to serve as guest speakers, bringing real-world experiences and perspective to classroom lessons.

Coursework includes:

  • Property and Casualty Insurance
  • Employee Benefits
  • Insurer Operations
  • Broker Operations
  • Corporate Risk Management
  • Workers’ Compensation
  • Life Insurance

Risk Management & Insurance Studies | Learning Objectives:

  • Understand the principles of risk management
  • Apply risk management processes—traditional and enterprise risk management
  • Compare the U.S., London, and other foreign insurance markets, and understand insurance distribution channels
  • Communicate professionally and work collaboratively
  • Demonstrate exceptional analytical skills
  • Earn credits toward the industry’s professional designations, such as CPCU, ARM, CRM, etc.